Ben Shelton showcased his resilience by overcoming Kamil Majchrzak in a thrilling three-set match, winning 6-7(2) 6-3 7-6(7). This victory is crucial for Shelton as he fights to maintain his position in the ATP Finals, currently sitting sixth in the standings.
After a challenging return from injury, which had him retire with a shoulder issue in New York and lose his opening match in Shanghai, the win in Vienna offers Shelton a much-needed confidence boost. The 23-year-old was not at his sharpest against Majchrzak but demonstrated his trademark fighting spirit by saving two match points in the final set. The match lasted two hours and 43 minutes, culminating in a tense tie-break where Shelton turned the tide from a 4-6 deficit to secure the win.
“It was such tight margins. He had the match on his racket and then I had it on mine,” Shelton reflected on the hard-fought match. He emphasized the importance of mental toughness in tight encounters, especially early in a tournament on a fast court. Shelton acknowledged that both players executed well, stating, “He served great, dealt with my serve great, and played tough from the baseline.” This marked his first victory since his injury, making it a significant milestone in his return to form.
Looking ahead, Shelton will face Jaume Munar, who advanced by defeating Swiss qualifier Remy Bertola 6-2 6-4.
In other matches, Joao Fonseca made headlines by defeating defending champion Giovanni Mpteshi Perricard 7-6(6) 6-3, becoming the youngest match winner at the event since Denis Shapovalov in 2017. The impressive 19-year-old has had a notable first full season on the Tour, capturing his initial professional title in Buenos Aires and breaking into the top 50.
Additionally, Marin Cilic triumphed over Belgian player David Goffin with a score of 7-6(9) 7-5, and Reilly Opelka secured a victory against Sebastian Baez 6-3 6-4. Valentin Royer also impressed by defeating Raphael Collignon 6-4 7-6(5).
Shelton’s victory stands as a testament to his determination and potential, with hopes high for his continued success in the tournament.